Looking Back

10 years ago

July 24, 2014

Firefighters battle the Watermelon Hill fire, seven miles southwest of Cheney and four miles east of Interstate 90 finally reached their goal Tuesday on total containment. The fire burned 11,000 acres according to Cheney Fire Chief Mike Winters.

The primary race for Spokane County Commissioner District 3 seat pits three candidates, the incumbent commissioner, Republican Al French, previous commissioner, Bonnie Mager and newcomer Democratic candidate Mary Lou Johnson.

Last Saturday, Cheney High School Alumni Association sponsored the annual All-Class Reunion Picnic at Salnave Park. More than 300 alumni and friends from classes as far back as the 1930’s participated.

20 years ago

July 29, 2004

Dry conditions and a passing freight train were contributing factors in a small wildfire just outside northeast Cheney.

The Spokane Transit Authority was in the process of re-examining how it serves the West Plains because of drops in usage. A recent voter-approved sales tax increase likely kept STA from ending service to the area.

The Medical Lake City Council was considering making, selling or setting off fireworks of any kind illegal.

30 Years Ago

July 21, 1994

Cheney’ new wastewater treatment plant was nearing completion and would replace sewer lagoons that were built in the 1960’s.

The City of Cheney Water Department was urging residents to conserve water as hot temperatures forced them to initiate water restrictions.

40 years ago

July 25, 1984

A string of burglaries in two Eastern Washington University dormitories were being investigated by local law enforcement. The Break-ins occurred at Streeter and Louise Anderson halls which housed members of the Seattle Seahawks football team who were in Cheney for training camp.

50 years ago

July 25, 1974

Four Lakes announced plans to stage a community fair, Aug. 24, at the Four Lakes Grange featuring local baked goods, livestock, farm and garden products.

EWU football coach John Massengale said, “his team will be as strong as last year and probably better.” The Eagles 5-4 in 1973, were scheduled to open the season, Sept. 21, at Portland State University.